When Liverpool star Mario Balotelli posted posted the three words "Manchester United… lol" during the Old Trafford side's 5-3 meltdown at Leicester City's King Power Stadium ground yesterday, Sunday, he would not have expected the backlash he eventually received.

The Italian, who has long been a victim of racial abuse from his time spent in Serie A, saw his Twitter time-line suddenly filled with a plague of vile prejudicial remarks.

Such comments contradict English football's "Kick It Out" campaign, which is an organisation within the sport of football solely created to challenge discrimination and encourage inclusiveness.

After the hate-filled messages were circulated, Kick It Out were swift to issue a statement: [We are] aware of racist tweets directed Mario Balotelli and will be reporting to the authorities. Thanks to all who have alerted us."